For the first time in 24 years, Julie Che Moonves will not welcome the latest person evicted from the “Big Brother” house following news that the reality show’s veteran host has tested positive for COVID-19.
“The Talk” co-host Jerry O’Connell will step in for Chen during the Thursday, September 12 live eviction episode.
Sonja Flemming/CBS
In an Instagram post, Chen said, “Friday morning, I woke up with a sore throat and went to see my good friend who is an ENT [Ear, Nose, Throat physician]. That night he called to say I have COVID. Thankfully this is only the second time for me and it’s been very mild! No fever and just a sore throat.
“Unfortunately, I am still testing positive as of this morning… despite feeling good, strong and my cough being gone, I must sit tonight’s ‘Big Brother’ live eviction out.”
Noting that O’Connell will step in for her, Chen joked, “I hope Jerry fits into my dress, has a ball and tells the houseguests I miss them but will be watching from home. See? Chenbot is human after all! Love one another and enjoy tonight’s show.”
In addition to her “Big Brother” duties, Chen Moonves previously served as moderator of “The Talk” during the show’s first eight seasons (2010-2018). O’Connell joined the daytime talk show’s panel of hosts in 2021 at the launch of Season 12.
In an Instagram post, O’Connell teased his appearance as the fill-in host of “Big Brother,” saying, “Jerry O’Connell here; I’m one of the hosts of ‘The Talk.’ Tonight, I’m going to be the substitute teacher for ‘Big Brother.’ Julie Chen Moonves is a little under the weather, we love her.”
The live eviction episode of “Big Brother” airs Thursday, September 12 at 8:00 p.m. ET on CBS. Stream Live and On Demand on Paramount+.